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Wednesday, January 01, 2014

TfL new website, credit where credit's due....by Jim Thomas

TfL are currently running a beta version of their new, easier to navigate website.

For many years now I, along with many others, have been complaining about the complexity of the TfL website. Navigation's a nightmare and many sections of the current website can only be found through links given online or on twitter.

The IT staff (or has this been outsourced too?) at TfL have now come up with a brand-new website, currently operating as a beta version and in my humble opinion, they have done a first class job. So it would seem that someone somewhere, is listening.

It appears we will soon be able to open a TPH online account, which should speed up enquiries and complaints.

Taxis and private hire section is easily accessible from the main body of the TfL website. The link is at the bottom, on the home page.

Most if not all of the relevant pages relating to Taxis and private hire are included in the new site.

No matter what device you’re on - mobile, tablet, laptop or desktop - there is better access to all TfL online services.

You can find out;

How to become a taxi or private hire licensee.

Check the progress of your application/renewal (on line).

See the latest notices for current drivers.

Advice and updates on legal requirements and consultations.

Only downside we could find, making a complaint regarding touting incidents.

It's still possible but is drawn out and long winded.

In our opinion, this process should be made more user friendly.

Personally I believe TfL should consider a twitter account, perhaps @TPHtouting, solely for the purpose of reporting touting incidents. But they probably fear being overwhelmed on a nightly basis.

TfL have launched a whole new range of Twitter accounts, something our trade has been utilising for sometime with services such as @cabup, @UCGup, @Tag_hit_squad and others.

All the underground lines, overground, DLR, Buses, Cable car, Boris Bikes and general traffic information have their very own twitter account. Registering for email updates and weekend closures have been made much easier.